Last visit: 15/5/2021
Rating: 2/10 (note, no view when we visted)
Difficulty: 10/10 (extremely strenuous)
Duration: 5-6 hours return
Distance: 10 km return
According to trusty Strava elevation gained is 838 metres. Broken Nose itself is 926m above sea level.
Broken nose is a side trail on the summit to Bartle Frere (Queensland's tallest mountain). Unfortunately this mountain, being located just over 1 hour drive south of Cairns is often covered in rain clouds, including on the day that Rochelle decided to give this one a crack. Hence why the above photo is of one of the beautiful creek crossings (and not the non-existent views from the top).
This is a very strenuous hike, on the day Rochelle visited the reward/effort ratio was way off. Not only was there no view, but we were fighting off leeches the entire way. You could say that this hike broke Rochelle and her companions a little in spirit and body. Another hike that Sarah was probably not so sad in missing.
What you need to know:
Check the weather. This is a hike that you are only going to want to do if there are clear blue skies. Being located near Innisfail and Babinda, clear blue skies are easier said that found.
If there is rain about and you are not a fan of leeches, forget it. Trust us. This national park we are sure has the highest density population of leeches in the world.
This is one bloody steep, difficult and relentless hike, only attempt if you love hiking and have good fitness, otherwise you will be miserable.
The track is slippery when wet, and steep, wear appropriate footwear, preferably hiking boots or something with some grip.
Trail notes:
The trail starts at the car park to Josephine Falls, you can google maps your way, there are also signs from the highway. The start of the trail for Broken Nose is also the start of the trail to the Bartle Frere summit. The start of the trail is clearly marked and is up past the toilets and BBQ area.
The first 3.3km of the trail is relatively flat and easy, but don't get content or comfortable, a world of hurt awaits beyond the 3.3km mark. There are multiple creek crossings, nothing too deep or to be concerned about.
You continue on this trail until you reach a pretty obvious clearing where you branch off from the summit track. The summit track will take you right and across another larger creek crossing. Broken nose will take you straight/right past the sign, and this is where it immediately starts to get steep. The trail is marked with orange arrows and some blue tape.
Not long after you start along the broken nose trail, there is an opportunity to get lost, an overgrown fork in the road if you like. Make sure you take a right turn (following the arrows).
The trail is otherwise pretty well marked, very very steep and if wet full of leeches. You shouldn't get too lost or wander astray and reach the top with limited navigational difficulty. At the top I can imagine incredible views would await.... on a sunny day.
In case you don't believe me on the leeches, here are some photos, warning graphic content!!
PS. the below image is not Rochelle's leg (she does shave, she also wears appropriate and thick hiking socks).
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